Micranthemum umbrosum Baby Tears

Micranthemum umbrosum is a small, delicate stem plant native to North and Central America that is popular both as a planted stem and as a surface floater. Its diminutive, round leaves produce a lush, fine-textured effect similar to Hemianthus callitrichoides but in a more manageable, upright stem format. Under bright light it forms compact, dense columns ideal for midground use; it can also be left floating where it creates attractive surface mats that diffuse light beautifully.

Light: Medium (30–60 PAR); higher light promotes compact growth; low light causes etiolation. CO2: Beneficial at 15–25 mg/L; compact growth and small leaf size improved with CO2. Fertiliser: Regular balanced NPK plus micronutrients; sensitive to iron deficiency. Planting: Midground groups of 5–7 stems spaced 2 cm; alternatively float at surface. Growth: Moderate; 5–20 cm; trim regularly to maintain compact, dense appearance.